Olive Branch Seva Scholarship 2020

About

Olive Branch Seva Scholarship

The Olive Branch Seva Scholarship continued through 2020, transitioning to an online application process for the first time. The award recognises students who have demonstrated, through consistent service, that their education will not take them away from their community.

The scholarship is transferred directly to the recipient's institution — not paid to the individual — upon confirmed enrolment.

That the programme continued at all in 2020 reflects the church's conviction that investing in young people committed to service cannot wait for easier times.

Eligibility

Who Can Apply

Students who are confirmed to enter a recognised college or university within the current academic year
Students who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate programme at any stage
Applicants must be residents of Pokhara or Gandaki Province, or active members of Olive Branch Church
Applicants must have completed a minimum of 20 verified hours of community service in the preceding 12 months
One application per student per year
Previous recipients are not eligible to apply again

Criteria

Selection Criteria

Each application is reviewed by a panel of church leaders, educators, and community representatives. Applicants are assessed across the following areas:

Community Service Verified hours and quality of community service, volunteering, or social work 30%

Academic Standing Evidence of academic effort and progress — entering students provide school records; enrolled students provide college transcripts 25%

Statement of Purpose A personal statement (400–800 words) on how the applicant's education will serve their community 25%

Character Reference Two references from community members, teachers, or religious leaders 20%

Key Dates

Timeline

Apr 19, 2020

Applications Open

Application forms available at the church office and distributed through partner schools and colleges

4 weeks after opening

Submissions Close

All applications, supporting documents, and references must be submitted

2 weeks before announcement

Shortlist Interviews

Shortlisted applicants are invited for a brief conversation with the selection panel

Jul 19, 2020

Recipient Announced

Announced at Sunday service and posted on the church notice board. Scholarship transferred to institution within 30 days

Olive Branch Seva Scholarship 2020